December 2012

Vince Flynn is an author I turn to when I am in the mood for action and suspense. Last Man, the author's latest installment in the Mitch Rapp series, was just what I was looking for. It is a fast paced thriller set in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and as in other books in this series, it highlights numerous challenges faced by Mitch Rapp as a CIA operative. And, I do mean numerous. First, the head of CIA operations in Afghanistan is kidnapped and his bodyguards executed. Next, Mitch uncovers a global plot to discredit the United States and expose many of the CIA's hidden secrets.

As the youngest of eight kids growing up on a Wisconsin farm, artist Geraldine Buteyn learned to appreciate the simple things. Her January exhibit in the Fond du Lac Public Library, Slices of Life, showcases the moments she finds with her discerning eye.

The Fond du Lac Public Library BookCellar will hold its annual Mega-zine Sale January 5, 7, 12 and 14. Bundles of magazines from 2010 will be sold for 25 cents each and will include such popular titles as Redbook, People, TIME and Sports Illustrated. The magazines are issues culled from the library’s collection.

Storytimes at the Fond du Lac Public Library are an immensely popular drop-in program for parents and young children. Kids think the sessions – full of stories, rhymes and songs – are a lot of fun. Parents know they reinforce and emphasize important early literacy skills.

Need a little holiday spirit? Is the hustle and bustle of this time of year getting you down? Try reading a good book with a holiday theme to make your spirit bright. Two of my favorites this year are A Winter Dream by Richard Paul Evans, and Angels at the Table by Debbie Macomber. Newly released, and just in time for the holidays, both of these quick reads touch on the true meaning of caring, sharing, family and forgiveness.

People just starting out using computers can get a helping hand at Introduction to Computers, a series of four classes at the Fond du Lac Public Library.

The hands-on classes will be held from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. January 7, 8, 14 and 15. Each class will tackle a computer skill: how to use a mouse, how to find things on the internet, basic terminology and commands (such as cut/copy/paste) and an introduction to email. Participants will be working on library computers. Laptop owners can bring their devices; make sure to note that when signing up.